Formation in the Franciscan tradition integrates the human, spiritual, and educational dimensions of the person. We try to help each man understand his unique life call and thereby become a fully contributing member of our fraternity. By sharing our life and values, we encourage each man to progress in holiness, fraternity, and dedication to his ministry within the Church.
“The aim of formation in the religious life is the development of our candidates as religious so that being formed in the spirit of the Gospel and the Rule they may persevere with joy in a life of ongoing conversion.” TOR Constitution, Art. 17
Admission To Our Franciscan Formation Program
We consider single, Catholic men between the ages of 21-40 for admission to our formation program. Franciscan life is deeply meaningful but extremely challenging. Many are called, few are chosen. The admission process helps the Vocation Team assess if God is truly calling you to join our community after the example of Francis of Assisi.
We are looking for:
- Religious Development
The candidate must possess a personal faith in God and a call to serve in His Catholic Church. A regular practice of the Catholic faith is necessary. The applicant's relationship with God should be characterized by stability, growth and maturity. The applicant should have a reasonably-developed understanding of Christian doctrine and morality and an awareness of the life and mission of the Church today. - Educational-Vocational Development
The applicant must have spent his time productively between the completion of high school and admission to our community. This may involve further education, job training, or meaningful employment. Applicants for priesthood must show the ability to complete the required studies involved in seminary. Applicants for the brotherhood must be able to attain skills or academic degrees relevant to the ministries of the Province. - Moral Development
An applicant must be capable of transcending secular cultural and moral values. Christian moral values must be rooted in his character and he must possess personal integrity necessary to live out the Gospel values. This is shown by professing and following the teachings of the Catholic Church, recognizing we are all prone to sin and in need of God’s mercy. A candidate is not expected to be perfect, but on the road to perfection. Religious life is the path to conformity with Jesus Christ and perfection himself. - Motivation
The desire to live the Franciscan religious life is an important element of an applicant's vocation. His capacity for ongoing conversion and productive service within religious life initially stems from this desire. - Capacity For Service
From its origins, Franciscan life has been oriented toward Gospel witness and apostolic service. The applicant should be capable of rendering such service and becoming a productive member of an apostolate currently served by the province. - Human Development
Religious formation builds upon human maturity. Signs of such maturity in an applicant include an appropriate degree of personal autonomy and self-direction, healthy emotional development, a secure masculine identity and the capacity for rewarding interpersonal relationships in communal life. - Physical Health
The applicant should be in good health and free from severe chronic ailments. Physical handicaps are not impediments to acceptance, unless they interfere with community life or preclude apostolic service. - Financial Independence
Our vow of poverty prevents us from bringing financial obligations or debts into religious formation. Thanks be to God, there are organizations and benefactors who can assist with paying off debts so people may enter religious formation. An individual who has heavy debts, business obligations, or family duties should contact the Director of Vocations to see what is possible.
